Following the release of the final twenty hostages from Gaza in October, their journey towards recovery has begun. These individuals received immediate medical and psychological care at the Rabin Medical Center near Tel Aviv before reuniting with their families. However, this initial treatment marks just the start of a long and complex rehabilitation process.
A Symbolic Closure for the Hostage Unit
Recently, as the last living hostage departed for home, medical staff at the Rabin Medical Center symbolically turned off the lights in their hostage care unit. Professor Noa Eliakim-Raz, who oversees the unit, emphasized the importance of careful evaluation upon the hostages’ return. “The minute they come back, we ensure there are no immediate medical or mental emergencies,” she stated in an interview with CBN News.
Over the past two years, the medical team at Rabin has treated approximately forty hostages, including five released in October. Professor Eliakim-Raz described the harrowing experiences shared by the returnees, noting that many were confined in cramped spaces with inadequate food, significantly impacting their physical and mental health. “The stories we hear are heartbreaking,” she remarked, acknowledging the challenges faced by the survivors.
Complex Medical Challenges Ahead
As hostages transition back to civilian life, they confront ongoing medical challenges. Alon Ohel, who spent two years in captivity following his injury on October 7, 2023, recently returned to the hospital for orthopedic and eye surgeries. He endured severe conditions, including starvation, while held by Hamas. Professor Irit Bahar, head of the Ophthalmology Department, described the moment they realized they could restore Alon’s sight as “an emotional and remarkable moment.” Fortunately, the surgery was successful.
Dr. Mark Siegel, an internal medicine specialist from New York, expressed astonishment at the hostages’ survival under such extreme duress. “They endure severe abuse, malnutrition, and psychological trauma,” he noted, stressing that while physical recovery is critical, mental health issues often take longer to address. “Dehumanization and trauma can lead to long-term mental health challenges,” Dr. Siegel explained, highlighting the supportive role of families in the healing process.
Professor Eliakim-Raz also reflected on the resilience of the hostages, particularly the mothers and grandmothers released in November 2023. “Their strength is remarkable,” she noted, praising their ability to maintain hope during captivity. She recounted how many hostages engaged their minds to cope, recounting specific dates and events to keep track of time, which provided them with a sense of normalcy.
The long-term impact of their experiences is profound. Professor Eliakim-Raz warned that the physical and psychological effects of their captivity could linger for decades, manifesting in increased risks for various health issues. “The body remembers,” she stated, underscoring the importance of ongoing care aimed at rebuilding resilience.
Looking ahead, the rehabilitation goals for the hostages will vary significantly. For some, reintegration may mean starting a family or returning to work, while for others, it may be as simple as playing a musical instrument or rejoining the military. “The main focus is to help them return to their lives,” Eliakim-Raz asserted.
As families welcome their loved ones back, they face the challenge of re-establishing relationships. Professor Eliakim-Raz compared this process to giving birth, where both the returnees and their families must adjust to the changes that have occurred during the time apart. “They are different people now,” she said, emphasizing the need for patience and understanding as they navigate this complex transition.
The medical team at the Rabin Medical Center has expressed their commitment to supporting the hostages through their recovery. Professor Eliakim-Raz hopes that the broader community in Israel can learn from this crisis, recognizing the importance of solidarity and mutual support in the face of adversity.
